The investigation into the 2013 Shapla Chattar crackdown has entered a decisive phase, with the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) confirming that at least 58 deaths have so far been identified in connection with the incident.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, ICT Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam said the updated figure was compiled through a combination of post-mortem examination records, verification of burial sites, and testimonies from family members of the deceased.
He added that the deaths have been traced across four districts, with 32 reported in Dhaka, 20 in Narayanganj, five in Chattogram, and one in Cumilla.
The Shapla Chattar operation, carried out on 5 May 2013, remains one of the most controversial law enforcement actions in recent history, and is now being formally examined as a case of crimes against humanity.
Md Aminul Islam said the investigation has reached its final stage, with prosecutors preparing to build a comprehensive case based on command responsibility and involvement of senior figures.
He indicated that the number of potential accused, including former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and several senior officials of law enforcement agencies, is expected to exceed 30. However, he clarified that the identities of additional accused have not yet been formally disclosed.
The chief prosecutor also referred to former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun, noting that preliminary information had suggested possible inclusion in the list of accused. However, investigators have since received indications that he may have been abroad at the time of the operation, a matter currently under verification.
On 12 March, the ICT had already issued arrest warrants against several high-profile individuals, including Sheikh Hasina, former home minister Mohiuddin Khan Alamgir, former IGP Hasan Mahmud Khandaker, former DMP commissioner Benazir Ahmed, and Gonojagoron Mancha spokesperson Imran H Sarker.
Authorities say the ongoing probe is now focusing on establishing operational command structures and individual accountability before submitting final charges in the case.
